Specifications include, but are not limited to: In July 2001 the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH) and the Massachusetts Department of Education (DOE), now the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), entered into an agreement to collaboratively improve the provision of educational and special education services for students in Massachusetts schools who are deaf or hard of hearing. In the Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) formalizing this agreement the two agencies agreed to focus on how to increase family understanding of the communication needs of their children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Possible action areas include, but are not limited to: Identifying resources and providing technical assistance and training to families of Deaf/HOH children. Increasing the understanding of school and agency personnel on resources available related to Deafness and on communication needs and solutions for Deaf individuals. Supplementing workshops and other training information by having the information available in alternative formats including sign language Providing information via presentations and resource materials at conferences and meetings as requested. Developing resources to be available via school and agency websites and newsletters as appropriate. Working with MCDHH to facilitate and support the establishment of a local chapter of a reputable and appropriate national organization for the purpose of supporting families of Deaf/HOH children in Massachusetts. MCDHH is seeking a skilled, qualified professional Parent Coordinator to spearhead this multi-year effort on a part-time basis.
